Why preparation matters
The first consultation sets the direction of care for everything that follows. A small amount of preparation makes the appointment more useful, for you and for the clinician.
A short checklist
Make a list of what you want to discuss
Even if you are coming in for a routine baseline, jot down the things that have been on your mind. It is easy to leave the consulting room and remember a question on the way home. A list makes that less likely.
Bring a medication list
Names, dosages and frequency. If you take supplements or over-the-counter medicines regularly, include them too. Photographs of the labels work fine if a written list is too much.
Think about your goals
What does “good health” look like to you? Energy levels, ability to do specific activities, freedom from a particular symptom, a longer-term outcome? Sharing this helps the clinician build a plan around what actually matters to you.
Note any recent investigations
If you have had blood tests, imaging or specialist consultations in the past year, bring the results, or let us know where to request them.
During the consultation
Ask questions. Repeat back what you have heard if it helps you remember. Take notes if you want to. There is no part of the conversation that is rushed or off-limits.
After the consultation
You will leave with a written summary of the plan, an idea of when you will hear back about anything we are following up on, and clear next steps. If anything is unclear in the days that follow, the team is just an email away.